The finishing phase — from approximately 30kg to slaughter weight (90-120kg) — represents the longest phase of the pig's commercial life. Welfare decisions during this period affect millions of pigs annually. Getting finishing welfare right requires attention to space, enrichment, health monitoring, and pre-slaughter management.
Minimum EU and UK space requirements for finishing pigs: 0.65m² per pig up to 85kg; 1.0m² per pig above 110kg. Research consistently shows that welfare outcomes improve significantly above legal minimums. Overcrowded pens have higher rates of tail biting, aggression, respiratory disease, and skin lesions. Industry studies suggest 20-30% more space than legal minimum significantly improves welfare and can improve growth rate efficiency through reduced competition.
Legal requirements mandate enrichment throughout the finishing phase. Evidence for effective enrichment in finishing pigs:
Tail biting is the most significant welfare emergency in finishing pigs. Risk factors: inadequate enrichment, overcrowding, poor ventilation, nutritional deficiency, and disease. Early detection of tail lesions (daily observation) and prompt removal of both victim and biter are essential. "Outbreak" protocols should be prepared in advance with stockpersons trained to respond immediately.
Daily welfare checks in finishing pens should assess: demeanour, gait, skin condition, respiratory signs, and tail lesion status. Lameness (particularly associated with overgrown claws, joint infections, and floor injuries) is a significant welfare issue in finishing pigs on concrete slatted floors. Adequate rubber flooring in loafing areas significantly reduces lameness prevalence.